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by Dr Marianne Trent & Dr Claire Plumbly
This article has been adapted from episode 137 of The Aspiring psychologist Podcast. If you prefer you can listen here or watch here.
Burnout has become an increasingly discussed topic in recent years, particularly in the context of mental health and occupational well-being. In a recent episode of the Aspiring Psychologist Podcast, hosted by Dr. Marianne Trent and guest-hosted by Dr. Claire Plumbly, the complex nature of burnout is explored in depth. This blog post distills the key points from their insightful discussion.
What is Burnout?
Burnout is not a formal mental health diagnosis but is recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as an occupational phenomenon. It arises from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. However, burnout can affect unpaid workers, such as parents and caregivers, just as severely as those in paid employment.
Recognising Burnout
Dr. Plumbly emphasises that burnout consists of three main components:
Exhaustion: This includes physical, emotional, and mental fatigue that leaves individuals feeling drained and unable to cope.
Depersonalisation: This manifests as a sense of detachment from one’s work and colleagues, often resulting in a cynical or negative attitude.
Reduced Personal Accomplishment: Individuals may feel a lack of achievement and effectiveness in their work.
Symptoms and Effects
Burnout can affect various aspects of life, including:
Sleep: Difficulty falling asleep or waking up early with racing thoughts.
Social Withdrawal: Avoiding social interactions and neglecting relationships.
Self-Care Neglect: Failing to maintain healthy eating, exercise, or personal hobbies.
Escapism: Fantasies about escaping responsibilities, sometimes through illness or injury.
Impulsive Behavior: Engaging in activities like impulsive shopping or excessive social media use as a coping mechanism.
Assessment of Burnout
Dr. Plumbly offers a quick self-assessment tool for burnout:
1: Enjoy work, no symptoms of burnout.
2: Occasionally stressed but generally okay.
3: Definite symptoms of burnout.
4: Persistent burnout symptoms.
5: Complete burnout, considering major changes or help.
A score of three or more indicates a need for intervention and change.
The Importance of Awareness
Understanding and recognising burnout is crucial for preventing its severe impacts. Mental health professionals, caregivers, and even parents can benefit from this awareness, as burnout is not limited to any one profession or lifestyle.
Additional Resources
Dr. Claire Plumbly has authored a book titled "Burnout: How to Manage Your Nervous System Before It Manages You," which provides further insights into managing and mitigating burnout.
For more tips and strategies, you can follow Dr. Plumbly on Instagram and TikTok, where she shares valuable content for professionals and the general public alike.
Conclusion
Burnout is a multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive approach to manage effectively. By recognising the signs and symptoms early, individuals can take proactive steps to address burnout and maintain their mental health and well-being. For those interested in learning more, tuning into the Aspiring Psychologist Podcast and exploring Dr. Plumbly’s resources can be an excellent start.
Check out my books for Aspiring Psychologists here: https://www.goodthinkingpsychology.co.uk/my-books
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